Mission Operations Engineer

Apex Technology, Inc.•Los Angeles, CA

1d•$110,000 - $160,000

About The Position

Apex is seeking an experienced and motivated Mission Operations Engineer to own the operation of its satellites, including mission planning, onboard and ground-based automation, fault protection, anomaly response, and long-term mission success. The engineer will work with internal engineering teams and external customers to adapt Apex’s productized approach to individual mission needs and help shape processes, products, and spacecraft designs. The role requires technical depth in spacecraft systems and mission operations, along with the ability to lead critical responses under pressure. Apex manufactures satellite buses at scale using software, vertical integration, and hardware designed for manufacturing. Its spacecraft support payloads for applications including Earth observation and communications.

Requirements

U.S. Person status is required to access export-controlled data; the posting also describes eligibility through obtaining required export authorizations.
Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
At least 3 years of direct mission operations experience, including mission planning, commissioning, and anomaly resolution.
Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++, or Rust.
Experience with software integration, testing, and validation for real-time and distributed systems.
Strong understanding of spacecraft subsystems, including propulsion, avionics, and communications.
Experience with telemetry data analysis, automation, and mission operations software.
Knowledge of satellite operations software such as STK, GMAT, or similar.
Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills under pressure.
Strong communication, teamwork, and customer-facing abilities.

Responsibilities

Develop, validate, and execute mission plans and operations products for flight vehicles.
Own the roadmap, processes, and operations products for one of Apex’s satellite bus lines.
Lead spacecraft commissioning during launch and early operations.
Operate and monitor satellites in real time, including anomaly detection, safing, and recovery.
Develop fault protection strategies and automation for onboard and ground systems.
Analyze telemetry and mission data to assess spacecraft health, performance, and outcomes.
Collaborate with engineering teams to resolve anomalies and improve system reliability.
Standardize mission operations practices across spacecraft programs.
Serve as a technical resource and mentor for junior engineers.

Benefits

Equity in Apex and long-term incentives in the form of stock options.
Company-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and dependents.
$100,000 life insurance at no cost.
Paid time off starting at 15 vacation days and growing to 20 or more days annually, plus 10 paid holidays.
401(k) plan with a 100% match on the first 3% and a 50% match on the next 2%.
Eight weeks of paid parental leave.
Childcare reimbursement up to $350 per day for work-related travel.
Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks.
Office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and gatherings for employees and their families.
Tools for a productive desk setup.
In-person collaboration at the Playa Vista office, with flexibility to integrate work and life.